Arsenal Transfer Rumours: Ashley Williams Would Be a Worthwhile Investment

With injuries mounting on Arsenal's back line this summer, Gunners boss Arsene Wenger has reportedly ratcheted up his interest in veteran Swansea defender Ashley Williams, according to the Mirror's John Cross.

Although the 28-year-old Welsh star isn't nearly as big a name as Luis Suarez, he would be a worthwhile investment for the London club. More importantly, landing him would allow Wenger to boost the squad's depth while at the same time relieving some of the fan pressure to spend. 

According to Cross, Wenger and his staff have been scouting Williams this summer and could potentially bring him aboard for £8.5 million:

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Wenger sent scouts to watch the Wales centre-half in Europa League win against Malmo on Thursday night - proof that the 28-year-old is still on the Gunners’ hit list.

The north Londoners were initially scared off by Williams’ £10million valuation, but we understand the Welsh club may now be willing to let him go for £8.5m if a top club comes in.

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The price tag for Williams' services may be the one thing worrying Arsenal at the moment, but seeing as Thomas Vermaelen is set to miss another six weeks and that Nacho Monreal could miss the start of the season with a bad back, this move makes a ton of sense.

In addition to bolstering their central defense, Arsenal would be sending a much-needed message to their supporters.

Up to this point, the Gunners' summer transfer window has been almost a complete waste, with the club looking content to sit on its money and move forward with its current cast if Liverpool aren't willing to sell Luis Suarez.

But Wenger could point to a potential move for Williams as the start of several notable acquisitions this offseason. It's certainly not enough to instill confidence in every fan, but it would at least provide a highlight in a summer that has lacked them.

Even if the Gunners only land Williams before the end of August, at least they will have addressed a critical need.

Williams isn't just a stopgap until Arsenal's banged-up defenders heal, either. An accomplished veteran, he has captained both Swansea and the Wales national team, proving to be an exceptional leader on the pitch.

Although he isn't going to contribute a ton offensively, having scored just one goal at the club level over the past two seasons in the Premier League with Swansea, his poise at the back is plenty of reason for the Gunners to make a bid for him this August.

If Wenger and company aren't even willing to spend for a quality player that addresses a key need, then they might as well put away their checkbook for the summer.

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